Name: Morning Glory Muffins Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups (250 g) all purpose flour; 1 cup (200 g) packed light brown sugar; 2 teaspoons baking soda; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (optional); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 cups (260 g) shredded carrots (about 4 large); 1 cup (140 g) grated Granny Smith apple with peel (about 1 large); 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut (unsweetened also works); 1 cup (8 oz can) crushed pineapple (drained); 1/2 cup (64 g) unsalted chopped walnuts (optional); 1/2 cup (80 g) raisins; 3 large eggs (room temperature); 2/3 cup (160 ml) vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional)

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There’s something truly magical about a muffin that’s bursting with wholesome goodness, vibrant flavors, and just the right touch of sweetness. This Morning Glory Muffins Recipe delivers exactly that—a delightful medley of shredded carrots, crisp apples, coconut, and pineapple all wrapped up in a warmly spiced, tender crumb. It’s the kind of muffin that makes you feel like you’re sneaking a sneaky serving of veggies into your morning or afternoon snack, with each bite bringing a comforting hug of cinnamon and a subtle zing from orange zest. Whether you’re serving these to family, friends, or just treating yourself, these muffins are sure to become a cherished classic.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows an overhead view of many small white bowls and a clear glass bowl placed on a white marbled surface, each filled with different baking ingredients. In the center is a clear glass bowl filled with bright orange shredded carrots. Surrounding it are white bowls with various ingredients: shredded apple in pale yellow, raisins in dark brown, shredded coconut in white, crushed pineapple in yellow, walnuts in light brown, brown sugar with a grainy texture, and all purpose flour with a powdery white color. There are also small white bowls with baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ground ginger, orange zest in bright orange, and vanilla extract, which is dark brown liquid. A measuring cup with light yellow vegetable oil and a white bowl with three whole eggs are also included. All bowls are neatly arranged with clear spacing and good lighting, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting started with this Morning Glory Muffins Recipe is a breeze thanks to a pantry-friendly mix of ingredients that each play a crucial role in the final flavor and texture. From the sturdy all-purpose flour that provides structure to the sweet and tangy pineapple that adds moisture and brightness, each component is essential to creating that perfect homemade muffin.

All-purpose flour (2 cups): The base that gives the muffins their tender yet sturdy structure.
Light brown sugar (1 cup, packed): Adds a gentle caramel sweetness and keeps the crumb moist.
Baking soda (2 teaspoons): Helps the muffins rise perfectly light and fluffy.
Ground cinnamon (2 teaspoons): Provides a warm, inviting spice that binds the flavors.
Ground ginger (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Offers a subtle zing that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances out sweetness and brightens flavors.
Shredded carrots (2 cups): Adds moisture, natural sweetness, and a tender bite.
Grated Granny Smith apple (1 cup): Brings a crisp tartness and freshness with its peel included for extra fiber.
Sweetened shredded coconut (1/2 cup): Adds texture and a hint of tropical flavor; unsweetened works as well.
Large eggs (3): Bind everything together and enrich the batter.
Vegetable oil (2/3 cup): Keeps the muffins moist and soft without overpowering other flavors.
Crushed pineapple (1 cup, drained): Adds juicy sweetness and a tropical twist.
Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Infuses a gentle sweetness and depth of flavor.
Orange zest (1 teaspoon, optional): Brightens the muffins with a fresh citrus aroma.
Chopped walnuts (1/2 cup, optional): Provides a pleasant crunch and nutty richness.
Raisins (1/2 cup): Sweet bursts of chewiness throughout.

How to Make Morning Glory Muffins Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Muffin Tin

Start by setting your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While it warms, line your muffin tin with paper liners or grease the cups lightly. This simple prep makes sure your muffins come out clean and easy to enjoy.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger if you’re using it, and salt. This dry mixture forms the spice-laden foundation of your muffins, paving the way for the fresh produce and sweetness to meld beautifully.

Step 3: Stir in the Vegetables and Fruit

Next, gently fold in the shredded carrots, grated apple with peel, and shredded coconut into the dry ingredients. These add texture and moisture, creating the signature body and flavor of a true Morning Glory muffin.

Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients Separately

In another bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, crushed pineapple (make sure it’s well drained), vanilla extract, and orange zest if using. The combination ensures your muffins stay soft and packed with fruity, sweet flavor.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now, pour the wet ingredients into the dry bowl and stir everything until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—just fold in the chopped walnuts and raisins at this point to evenly distribute those delightful crunch and bursts of sweetness.

Step 6: Transfer Batter to Muffin Tin and Bake

Fill your muffin cups about three-quarters full with the batter. For a little extra charm, sprinkle a bit of sugar on top of each muffin for a subtle sparkle and crunch after baking. Pop them into your preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, let the muffins cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This step prevents sogginess and helps the muffins set with a pleasing texture.

How to Serve Morning Glory Muffins Recipe

The image shows a black metal muffin tray with twelve round cups, each lined with white paper cupcake liners filled with light brown batter. The batter has visible small chunks of orange carrot shreds and darker bits, likely nuts or raisins, giving it a mixed texture. The tray sits on a white marbled surface with soft lighting, and the batter looks moist and ready to bake. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While these muffins are fantastic on their own, topping them with a smear of softened butter or a drizzle of honey truly elevates their flavor. For a fresh touch, sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon or add a dollop of cream cheese for creamy contrast.

Side Dishes

Serve these muffins alongside a hot cup of spiced chai tea or fresh-brewed coffee. They also pair wonderfully with a fruit salad or yogurt parfait, making for a balanced and satisfying breakfast or brunch spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, transform this Morning Glory Muffins Recipe into mini muffin bites for parties or pack them in decorative boxes for thoughtful homemade gifts. You can also slice them in half and fill with nut butter for a protein punch or layer with fresh fruit and whipped cream for an indulgent snack.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover muffins keep beautifully at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. Storing them this way preserves their moist crumb and prevents them from drying out too quickly.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these treats over a longer period, wrap individual muffins tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze well for up to three months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating

To revive frozen or stored muffins, warm them gently in a preheated oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes or zap one in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds. This quick heat gives you that just-baked freshness you crave.

FAQs

Can I use different fruits or nuts in this Morning Glory Muffins Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the apples for pears or the walnuts for pecans or almonds. Just remember to keep the quantities similar to maintain the balanced texture and flavor.

Are these muffins healthy enough for breakfast?

Yes, they’re a fantastic option for a wholesome breakfast since they contain real fruit and vegetables, healthy fats, and no artificial additives. They’re great for starting your day with natural energy and fiber.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

With some substitutions like using flax eggs or other egg replacements and a plant-based oil, you can make a delicious vegan version. Just be sure to check that your sugar and other ingredients are vegan-friendly too.

What’s the best way to shred carrots and apples for these muffins?

Use a box grater or a food processor with a shredding attachment to get fine, even shreds. For the apple, grating it with the peel on adds a lovely texture and extra nutrients.

How do I know when the muffins are done baking?

The best test is to insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin; if it comes out with just a few moist crumbs and no wet batter, your muffins are perfectly baked and ready to enjoy.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you make this Morning Glory Muffins Recipe, it’s going to be a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Its cozy, flavorful blend of fruits, spices, and wholesome ingredients makes it the kind of muffin that feels like a hug in every bite. So preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to fill your home with the irresistible smell of fresh-baked happiness!